Cancer Care donations flood in for Dry July

A record-breaking show of support for the Nepean Cancer Care Centre (NCCC) is helping improve patient comfort, care and the wellbeing of people affected by cancer.

Over $90,000 has been raised for the NCCC this year by Dry July participants, including staff who also participated.

‘Nepean Cancer Carers’ team leader, Leanne Hunter, says the choice to participate in this year’s event was an easy one.

“Every day you come to work and see the effect cancer has on people’s lives. Dry July allows us to give up something as simple as alcohol to help improve the lives of others,” says Ms Hunter.

In previous years Dry July donations have allowed the Centre to renovate patient rooms, acquire palliative care beds and purchase specialist equipment.

Clinical Director of the Nepean Cancer Care Centre, Dr Amanda Stevanovic says she is humbled by the community support and the opportunities it will bring to improving the overall experiences patients have at the Centre.

“We are committed to providing a compassionate cancer service for patients with cancer and blood disorders,” says Dr Stevanovic.

“This year, with the money raised, we hope to begin a major renovation to our blood collection room.”

“On average our blood collectors will see between 90 to 160 patients a day. The room is currently very clinical and we hope to create a more relaxing and ambient environment for our patients,” says Dr Stevanovic.

Other items on the Centre’s wishlist include new gowns for radiotherapy patients which are more comfortable to wear when compared to the traditional white hospital gowns.